RCIA

Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults
(RCIA)

Contact PA for Faith Formation Tim Simunds for more Information or to enroll in a sacrament preparation class

The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA) is a process by which interested adults are introduced to the Roman Catholic faith over a period of several months. It involves inquiry classes and several liturgical rites, ending with the celebration of the final rite at the Easter Vigil where the potential convert will be fully welcomed into the Catholic Church.

Inquiry Sessions

During the period of inquiry, teaching is given to the person interested in the Catholic faith. The Inquirers will be given basic information on the teachings of the Catholic Church. This period is an invitation to initial conversion to the Inquirer and there is no obligation for the person to commit to becoming Catholic. The purpose is to give the Inquirer more information so that they may make an informed decision if they would like to continue learning about the faith.

Inquiry Sessions are open to everyone. Typically classes begin early in October. However, you may begin an inquiry session at any time of the year.

Catechumens and Candidates

If the Inquirer makes the decision to become Catholic, they will go through liturgical rites of welcome and acceptance. After the completion of these rites, the individual will be considered a Catechumen or a Candidate.

Inquirers not already baptized are considered Catechumens, once they participate in the Rite of Acceptance of Catechumens. At this time, a Catechumen will choose a sponsor (a practicing Catholic who will go with the Catechumen through the rites and provide individual instruction and prayers on matters of faith). A Catechumen will be baptized, confirmed and receive the Eucharist at the Easter Vigil.

Inquirers that have been validly baptized into another Christian denomination, or Catholics that have been baptized but not confirmed, are called Candidates. Candidates will also choose a sponsor, and will participate in some of the same rites as the Catechumens, but not all. Unlike a Catechumen, a Candidate may make their profession of faith at any time during the year if they have sufficiently progressed through the inquiry process. This is something to be discussed with the priest and the RCIA director.